New laws to protect victims of online bullying

The Bill is named after Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett who was the young face of Akubra hats who took her own life early this year after relentless attacks from online bullies.

The new legislation will change the definition of ‘stalking and intimidation’ to include the bullying of a person on social media “with the intention of causing fear of physical or mental harm”.

This type of bullying is not restricted to young people. Sadly, it’s now very common in domestic violence cases. The proposed maximum penalty for online stalking and intimidation is five years in jail.

I believe this reform is long overdue and I’m keen to hear your thoughts or experiences.

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ABOUT GREG

Greg Piper has been an independent voice for the people of Lake Macquarie for more than 20 years, as a Member of Parliament, Mayor and councillor. He was elected to Lake Macquarie council in 1991, served as Mayor from 2004 until 2012 and has been the State MP for Lake Macquarie since 2007.